YOUR ? GUIDE - valdosta.edu€¢ After the President’s speech, students will be asked to approach...

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YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 1 VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Spring 2018 COMMENCEMENT HANDBOOK Friday, May 4 & Saturday, May 5 YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE VSUcommencement Valdosta State University Commencement Valdostastate

Transcript of YOUR ? GUIDE - valdosta.edu€¢ After the President’s speech, students will be asked to approach...

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 1

V A L D O S T A S T A T E U N I V E R S I T Y

Spring 2018 COMMENCEMENT

HANDBOOKFriday, May 4 & Saturday, May 5

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE VSUcommencement Valdosta State University Commencement Valdostastate

2 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

TO THE GRADUATES OF THE CLASS OF 2018,

It is with great pleasure that I invite you to participate in Valdosta State

University’s Commencement ceremonies on May 4th and 5th. This is our

opportunity to congratulate you, our graduates, and thank those who

have supported you throughout your journey.

This handbook has been developed with you and your family in mind.

In the following pages you will find a wealth of information about the

Commencement ceremonies. I encourage you to take a moment to look

carefully at the detailed information, including the location and time you

will need to assemble prior to the ceremonies.

I look forward to a time of celebration and to offering my congratulations

personally at Valdosta State University’s 2018 Commencement.

Warmest regards,

Dr. Richard Carvajal

President

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 3

CONTENTS

Schedule of Events ................................ 4-5

Ring Presentation ..................................... 6

Mayhem ....................................................... 7

Commencement Speaker ........................ 8

Grad Finale ................................................... 9

General Overview ................................ 10-13

“Purchase Your...” ................................ 14-15

Parents and Families ................................16

1906 Society ............................................... 17

Alumni Relations ................................. 18-19

Maps ..................................................... 20-23

Alma Mater ................................................ 25

Important Contacts .................Back cover

OTHER DATES TO REMEMBERMarch 5 Order your official class ring, 10:00am-2:00pm & 4:00pm-6:00pm, Student Union Bookstore

March 6 Order your official class ring, 10:00am-2:00pm & 4:00pm-6:00pm, Health Sciences and Business Administration, Lobby

March 7 - 8 Grad Finale, 10:00am–5:00pm, Student Union Bookstore, 1st Floor

March 12 Honor Graduates can pick up Honor Medallions at the Registrar’s office with photo ID

March 21 Spring Career Expo, 10:00am–2:00pm, Student Union

March 29 Education Career Day, 10:00am–2:00pm, University Center North, Magnolia & Cypress Rooms

March 30 Final day to order official VSU Announcements Online

March 30 Last day to order your regalia online in time for Spring Graduation *Also available to purchase at the bookstore through graduation.

April 4 Last day to apply for graduation (In order to have your name in the Commencement program)

April 4 Deadline to submit alternate graduation attendance form (early walker form) to the Registrar’s office

April 11 FREE Cap & Gown Picture Day, 10:00am–1:00pm, VSU Front Lawn *Inclement weather date ONLY April 12

April 12 Health Professionals Career Expo, 2:00pm–5:00pm, North Campus

April 26 Last Chance Job Fair, 6:00pm-8:00pm, Student Union Rotunda

April 27 Mayhem (end your college experience with a little Mayhem!), 6:00pm-10:00pm, VSU Front Lawn

April 30 Midnight Breakfast, 10:00pm–12:00am, Palms Dining Center

May 4 Last chance to pick up Honor Medallion at the Registrar’s office before 3:00pm

May 6 Residence Halls close at 7:00pm for all students walking in the Spring Commencement Ceremony

4 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Friday, May 4

Dental Hygiene Pinning Ceremony10:00am • Student Union Theatre

College of Nursing & Health Sciences Convocation 1:00pm • Student Union Ballrooms

Graduate School Commencement Ceremony All Masters, Specialists & Doctoral candidates will walk at this time.5:00pm • PE Complex

Check In & Line Up3:30pm

• Arrive to the PE Complex (2nd Floor) no later than 3:30pm to check-in and line up. Faculty Marshals will be there to direct you, and ensure an efficient lineup process.

• Make sure to bring your necessary graduation attire (cap, gown, hood and tassel). • Once the processional has left, no graduates will be permitted to join the lines. • Leave all personal belongings at home; there will be no place to store these items during the ceremony.

Receiving Your Diploma Cover• After the President’s speech, students will be asked to approach the stage and follow directions by the Faculty

Marshals.• Please proceed up the right side of the stage, entering the stage from the back. • Hand your name card to the reader, and your name will be called.• Hand your hood to the faculty advisor. • Take time to POSE FOR PICTURES when being hooded and when shaking the president's hand.• You will exit stage to the left. • Follow the Faculty Marshals directions to your seat.

Recessional (leaving the ceremony)• After the ceremony, there will be no recessional. All the graduates will stay in their seats until after the

celebration. Once the celebration is over, your family and friends can join you on the floor for pictures!

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Saturday, May 5Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) Commissioning Ceremony9:00am • Student Union Ballrooms

Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony All Associates and Bachelor’s degree candidates will walk at this time.7:00pm • Front Lawn • (PE Complex in case of severe weather)

Check In & Line Up5:30pm

• College of the Arts: Meet in Nevins Hall 1st Floor - North Hallway• College of Arts & Sciences: Meet in Nevins Hall - Room 1061 & 1065• College of Business: Meet in Bailey Science Center - Room 1023• College of Education: Meet in Bailey Science Center - Room 1011 (Auditorium)• College of Nursing: Meet in Bailey Science Center- Room 1024

• Faculty Marshals will be there to direct you, and ensure an efficient lineup process.• Do not be late to line up! Be there at 5:30pm with all of your necessary graduation attire (cap, gown, and

tassel). • Once the processional has left, no graduates will be permitted to join the lines. • Leave all personal belongings at home; there will be no place to store these items during the ceremony.• Please pay attention to the weather for the day of Commencement: You will be walking from Nevins and

Bailey, plan accordingly.• Please take into consideration when choosing your attire that you will be walking on sidewalks, brick

walkway and grass.

Recessional (leaving the ceremony)• After the ceremony, you will not recess out. All the graduates will stay in their seats for the firework show.

Once the firework show is over, your family and friends can join you for pictures!

6 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

Monday, March 5UNIVERSITY UNION BOOKSTORE10 AM - 2 PM & 4 PM - 6:30 PM

Tuesday, March 6HEALTH SCIENCES AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION LOBBY10 AM - 2 PM & 4 PM - 6:30 PM

Wednesday, March 7UNIVERSITY UNION BOOKSTORE10 AM – 5 PM

Thursday, March 8UNIVERSITY UNION BOOKSTORE10 AM – 5 PM

You are cordially invited to the following VSU

Ring Day events:

Congratulations!The VSU Alumni Association

is pleased to announce that

you are eligible to purchase

the official VSU class ring!

Each year, students who

have earned 60 or more

credit hours become eligible

to purchase the beautiful

VSU ring or pendant as a

symbol of achievement and

University pride.

The VSU Alumni Association will host a reception in your honor and personally present your ring to you at the Ring Presentation Ceremony on Tuesday, May 1st at 5pm.

Payment plan options and extremely discounted prices through Jostens willonly be available during VSU’s officialring days.

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 7

LIVE MUSIC FOOD VENDORS PAINT PARTY CARNIVAL GAMES GIANT INFLATABLES

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE OFFICE OF STUDENT LIFE

April 27th 6:00pm - 10:00pm

8 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

Amy Carter

Amy Carter has held many titles over the course of her life. From State Representative to educator to mother of two, Carter has proven herself to be a passionate advocate for education, economic development, and rural Georgia. Carter represented House District 175, which includes Brooks County and parts of Lowndes and Thomas counties, in the Georgia General Assembly from November 2006 until December 2017. During her service, Carter served in numerous leadership capacities including Floor Leader for Governor Nathan Deal, Chairman of Governmental Affairs, and, later, Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government. Carter also served as the chair of the Governor’s Teacher Advisory Commission in 2016 and was a member of the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Education, Governmental Affairs, Higher Education, and the Small Business Development committees.

During her time at the State Capitol, Carter committed herself to addressing a number of important issues including: decreasing dropout rates, expanding Georgia’s Pre-K program, improving technology in classrooms, and championing measures to support law enforcement and corrections officers.

Outside of her legislative accomplishments, Carter has dedicated her career to the betterment of her home: rural Georgia. Carter began her career as a Business and Office Technology Instructor at Valdosta Technical College and, most recently, served as a teacher at Lowndes High School. An educator at LHS for over sixteen years, Carter worked diligently to prepare sophomores, juniors, and seniors for future positions in the field of education. In addition, working alongside local businesses, Carter championed programs aimed at ensuring students have the soft skills necessary to succeed in the working world. Recognized as a leader and innovator within the field of education, Carter has leveraged her invaluable experience as an educator to fight tirelessly to ensure every Georgia child receives a world-class education, regardless of zip code. In recognition of her efforts in education, she has received the Lowndes County Schools Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award, the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Educators Legislator of the Year Award, and the Georgia School Counselors Association Legislator of the Year Award.

A graduate of Valdosta State University and a member of the Phi Mu Fraternity, Carter’s roots run deep within her community. She is an alumna of Leadership Lowndes and Leadership Georgia and serves on the First Lady’s Children’s Cabinet. She is also a former member of the Valdosta-North Rotary Club and a sustaining member of the Valdosta Junior Service League. Her community involvement has earned her a number of recognitions including: Valdosta Woman of the Year in 2002, the inaugural Leadership Georgia Dale Threadgill Community Service Award in 2004, the 2011-12 Liberty Bell Award by the Valdosta Bar Association, the Loyce W. Turner Public Service Award in 2012, the Above and Beyond Award from 4-H in support of Youth Development Education in 2012, and Brooks County Woman of the Year in 2014. Carter also holds an Honorary State FFA Degree and was named as one of only four “Power Women” in the state by Georgia Trend Magazine in 2013. Carter completed her tenure as a State Representative in December of 2017 and now serves as the Executive Director of Stewardship and Development for the Technical College System of Georgia.

Amy Carter loves spending time with her family in her hometown of Valdosta, Georgia where she serves faithfully as a Deacon of First Christian Church.

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 9

GradFinaleS P R I NG 2 0 1 8

• Pickup your Spring 2018 commencement handbook.

• Purchase, pickup and save 10% on your cap & gown.

• Check your graduation status.

• Check out VSU graduate programs.

• Have a professional graduation photo taken by GradImages.

• Order the official class ring & announcements.

• Join the 1906 Society to receive your red & black cords.

• Join VSU’s Alumni Association.

• Receive info about financial assistance.

• Sign-up for amazing door prizes!

• Pre-order your commencement DVD.

• Save 10% on diploma frames.

WHEN:Wednesday,March 7, 201810:00am – 5:00pm

QUESTIONS CONTACT:Event ServicesEmail: [email protected]/commencement

WHERE:Valdosta State UniversityStudent Union Bookstore1st Floor

Thursday,March 8, 201810:00am – 5:00pm&

Your one-stop shop for all graduation preparation!

VSU

10 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

GENERAL OVERVIEW

Grad Finale

Booths from the Commencement Office, Alumni Association, Registrar, Career Opportunities, and more will answer questions and provide crucial information to Spring graduates. Vendors for regalia, class rings, professional photography, and others will also be on hand to ensure a successful graduation experience. Snacks for attendees will be provided and several prize drawings. The event is Wednesday, March 7, and Thursday, March 8, from 10:00am–5:00pm in the VSU Bookstore, 1st floor of the Student Union.

Attendance

The university encourages attendance by all Spring 2018 candidates. This semester, VSU will hold two ceremonies. The Graduate Commencement Ceremony will be held Friday, May 4, 2018 at 5:00pm at the P. E. Complex. The Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony will be held Saturday, May 5, 2018 at 7:00pm on the front lawn of main campus. Candidates and guests are asked to remain at the ceremony for its entirety. The university appreciates your attendance and cooperation.

Application for Degree

All undergraduate candidates must submit an Application for Degree to the Registrar’s Office. The form should be submitted at least two semesters prior to their intended graduation date. Graduate students should submit an Application for Degree at least one semester prior to the intended graduation date.

Alternate Graduation Information(Degree Cutoff and Early and Late Walkers)

Valdosta State University holds two graduation ceremonies each year: at the end of fall and spring terms. Participating in a graduation ceremony should signify that students have completed all degree requirements at the time of that ceremony. If students request to participate in an earlier or later graduation ceremony, they must provide documentation explaining why they are unable to participate in their scheduled commencement. Even if students participate in an alternate ceremony, their

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 11

official graduation date will be for the graduation scheduled AFTER they have completed all degree requirements. Also, honors recognition cannot be granted in the alternate graduation ceremony. A form must be completed and submitted one month before requested ceremony.

Summer 2018 Graduates

Graduates from Summer 2018 will have their names included in the printed programs for the Fall 2018 Commencement Ceremonies. The graduates and their guests are welcome to attend.

Graduation with Honors

Three levels of graduation honors recognize exceptional students qualifying for the bachelor’s degree. These honors are based upon all academic work attempted, including all courses attempted at other institutions. A minimum of 60 semester hours of academic work, including any student teaching, must be successfully completed in residence at Valdosta State University. Credit by examination or exemption will not be included in the work considered for residence.

Cum Laude for an overall grade point average of 3.50 and a VSU cumulative average of 3.50.

Magna Cum Laude for an overall grade point average of 3.70 and a VSU cumulative average of 3.70.

Summa Cum Laude for an overall grade point average of 3.90 and a VSU cumulative average of 3.90.

Eligible students will be notified by mail and will be asked to stop by the Office of the Registrar to obtain a medallion signifying their academic achievement. Fall graduates will be notified in early October of their eligibility. The medallion should be worn at the commencement ceremony.

Address Information

Diplomas will be mailed to candidates who complete all graduation requirements. Candidates for graduation should contact their graduation auditor in the Registrar’s Office to make any necessary changes in their diploma mailing address.

Participant/Guest Attire

All ceremony participants must wear regalia. We suggest that you wear nice clothing under your gown. In general, dress with an eye to comfort and the weather. Low heels or flats are appropriate for navigating the different terrain. Opt for slacks and button down shirts for men, and slacks/skirts/sundresses for women. Sunglasses and hats could also prove useful. Umbrellas are NOT allowed in seating areas.

Tickets

Tickets are not required for the Commencement ceremonies. Seating for guests at Commencement ceremonies is on a first-come, first served basis. As the ceremonies are heavily attended, we recommend that family members arrive early and be seated no later than 45 minutes before each ceremony.

12 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

Seating

Since seating is open, we kindly ask that seats not be saved by any means other than someone sitting in the seat. If you bring balloons, ribbons, bags, etc., to attach to chairs in an attempt to save multiple seats, a faculty marshal or other member of the Commencement staff will ask you to remove them. Large video screens will be set up to make viewing the ceremony easy for everyone.

Guests With Accessibility Needs

Interpreter services are provided by the VSU Access Office to ensure all guests enjoy a comfortable and accessible Commencement. Accessibility seating is available at both ceremony locations (see maps on page 20-23) on a first-come, first-served basis. Staff/volunteers will be available at the ceremony to guide you to seating or bathrooms. VSU does not provide walkers, wheel chairs or accessible devices.

Students With Accessibility Needs

Students with a disability who require assistance for the commencement ceremonies should contact the Access Office at 229.245.2498 at least two weeks prior to the ceremony.

Webcast

The Graduate School Commencement ceremony and Undergraduate Commencement ceremony will be viewable live online under the Commencement website. Click the ‘Live Webcast’ tab to access the live stream.

Parking & Transportation

Parking is available at the Sustella Parking Deck and the Oat St. Parking Deck. Shuttle buses will be available on both Friday and Saturday from the parking decks listed above. Shuttles will begin service up to three hours before the event is scheduled to begin. Please refer to the map on page 20 for a complete schedule and locations.

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Severe Weather (Undergraduate Ceremony)

Please note that the ceremony will remain outside rain or shine; however, in the event of severe weather, the undergraduate ceremony scheduled to take place on the front lawn will be moved to the PE Complex (401 Baytree Road) at the below times: 1:00pm

College of Education & Human ServicesCollege of Nursing & Health Sciences 4:00pm

College of Business AdministrationCollege of the Arts 7:00pm

College of Arts & Sciences

If the weather is uncertain and you are unsure of the location of the event, check the VSU Commencement webpage, or sign up for text alerts beforehand to be personally contacted of any changes. (see map on page 22).

Text Message Alerts for Commencement

Valdosta State University offers a complimentary early alert system for all Commencement attendees. The system is designed to inform you, via text message, if any of the ceremonies have been moved due to severe weather or any unexpected circumstance. Sign up at www.valdosta.edu/commencement/commencement-text-alerts.php

Event Services Officephone 229.333.5998 • web www.valdosta.edu/commencement

14 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

Regalia

All graduating students must purchase and wear Valdosta State University regalia from the VSU Bookstore.

• Bachelors Cap, Gown w/School Custom Zipper Pull, Tassel w/School Custom Charm ($59.00)

• Masters Cap, Gown w/School Custom Zipper Pull, Hood, Tassel w/School Custom Charm ($103.00)

• Specialist Cap, Gown w/School Custom Zipper Pull, Hood, Tassel w/School Custom Charm (103.00)

• Doctors Tam, Gown w/School Custom Zipper Pull, Tassel w/School Custom Charm, Hood ($212.00)

DVD

Pre-order your Commencement Ceremony DVD online at http://community.valdostastate.org/commencement-dvd for $30.00.

Professional Pictures/Photography

Grad Images, the official photographers, will take three individual photos of each graduate: before crossing stage, shaking hands with the president (and as they are hooded for graduate school), and after with diploma. Proofs of these photos will be sent to the student’s VSU email address along with information about ordering prints. Follow ordering instructions or visit the Commencement website for more information. Services provided by GradImages Photography (1.800.261.2576).

PURCHASE YOUR…

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 15

Announcements

Jostens is the official provider of VSU’s graduation announcements. You can go to the Commencement website for pricing information and to order online.

Valdosta State License Plate

When it’s time to renew your license plate, think VSU! The VSU Foundation receives $10 of every sale and renewal from license plates. For more information about your new VSU License Plate, visit your local tag office.

VSU Alumni Gear

The VSU Bookstore can meet all of your alumni gear needs! The VSU Bookstore will be open Friday, May 4, 2018 from 8:30am–6:00pm and Saturday, May 5, 2018 from 10:00am-5:00pm.

16 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

Getting to Valdosta State University from the Valdosta Airport

When leaving the airport, take a right onto Airport Road. At the stop sign take a left onto Madison Highway. When Madison Highway dead ends, take a left onto South Patterson St. After overpass, road veers to the right, taking you onto South Ashley Street. Take left onto Magnolia Ave. and then right onto N. Patterson St. As you near the campus, take a left onto Brookwood Dr. which will take you straight into the Oak St. Parking Deck.

Getting to Valdosta State University via Interstate 75

Follow Interstate 75 to Exit 18 and head east into Valdosta. Turn left at the second traffic signal onto Gornto Rd. At the next traffic signal, turn right onto Baytree Rd. Follow Baytree Rd. until in dead ends into VSU’s campus. Take a right on Oak St. at the dead end and then take another right at the first light taking you into the Oak St. Parking Deck and surface lot.

PARENTS & FAMILIES

Know before you go…

• Bring Commencement Handbook• Subscribe to Commencement text alerts for

weather/location updates.• Check the website for latest updates• Check weather.com for forecast• Don’t forget to confirm hotel reservations• Make restaurant reservations• Bring camera • Bring ponchos• Plan your attire, according to the weather.• Pre-Order Commencement Ceremony DVD• Buy Alumni gear at the VSU Bookstore• Take note of these prohibited items: signs,

umbrellas, noise makers, balloons.

Indoor Viewing of the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony

Bailey Science Center Auditoriums 101 1 - Located on the 1st floor 3009 – Located on the 3rd floorSee Map on Page 22

Refreshments at the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony

There will be several locations on the Front Lawn to purchase food and drinks before and during the ceremony.

Flowers for Graduates

Be on the lookout at the PE Complex and the VSU Front Lawn for flower sales for your graduate on their special day.

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 17

Congratulations Seniors!

I know the light at the end of the tunnel is shining bright, and as you prepare for your next step in life, with your VSU degree in hand, we invite you to join the 1906 Society! This is your opportunity to make a difference today in the lives of those that will be at VSU tomorrow!

The 1906 Society is a student giving organization that is dedicated to the continued growth and development of VSU through individual gifts from seniors and graduate students. With your gift to the 1906 Society, your donation will be used to fund an annual scholarship to help offset the cost of tuition for an incoming freshman.

In commemoration of Valdosta State’s founding year, we ask graduates to donate $19.06. Your gift may exceed this amount; however gifts of any size can make a difference to the students that receive the scholarship.

As a member of the 1906 Society, you will receive a red and black graduation cord and be recognized at commencement!

For more information and to join the 1906 Society, call VSU’s Director of Annual Giving, Merritt Wall at 229.245.4329 or email her at [email protected].

1906 Society

18 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Class of 2018,

Congratulations on reaching this momentous milestone in your life, and welcome to the Valdosta State University Alumni Association! You are joining over 60,000 fellow Blazers who proudly represent our alma mater across the country and around the world. Commencement activities will allow you and your families to celebrate this noteworthy accomplishment. The primary role of the Alumni Association is to provide you a means to stay connected with fellow alumni and to your VSU family as you enter this next phase of life. Your lifetime membership in the VSU Alumni Association is automatic and free of charge. We encourage you to become involved with one of the four Alumni Association Chapters (Atlanta, Middle Georgia, Golden Isles, and Valdosta) and take advantage of the many opportunities to stay involved with VSU. We hope you stay involved with Valdosta State and let us celebrate your future successes with you. Your graduation is only the beginning of your VSU experience. You can update your information on our website by creating your alumni association membership profile at https://community.valdostastate.org/Login. Please visit the VSU alumni website at valdostastate.org or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 229.333.5797.

Congratulations on your significant accomplishment. Go Blazers!

Sincerely,

Larry Hansen Class of 1995President, VSU Alumni Association

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 19

WELCOME TO THE VSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Don’t forget to update your contact information at https://community.valdostastate.org/My-Profile Benefits available to members of the VSU Alumni Association include:• Opportunities to join Alumni Chapters in locations

throughout the region;• Regional Alumni Receptions throughout Georgia

and North Florida, offering an opportunity to meet and network with other VSU Alumni;

• The potential to serve on the Association’s board of directors

On Homecoming Weekend each year, alumni are invited to return to campus for an exciting weekend. Events include:• Annual Alumni Golf Tournament• VSU Homecoming Parade• Alumni Tailgate Party• Distinguished Alumni Dinner

ON-CAMPUS BENEFITS

• Transcript Release Forms• 20% discount on items at the VSU Bookstore.• Alumni membership at the Student Recreation

Center (SRC). Call the SRC at 229.333.5898 to learn about fees and hours of operation.

• Full user privileges at the Odum Library on main campus.

• Career counseling and services offered to all VSU Alumni. Career testing is a free service provided to alumni up to one semester after graduation. After the one-semester grace period, alumni receive a discount off the fee assessed to cover the cost of the testing materials. Please contact the Career Opportunities office for details at 229.333.5942.

VSU ALUMNI CHAPTERS

To become involved in one of our Alumni Chapters, or if you are interested in starting an Alumni Chapter, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 229.333.5797.

CHAPTERS:

• Alumni Chapter of Atlanta• Middle Georgia Alumni Chapter• Golden Isles Alumni Chapter• Alumni Chapter of Valdosta

Visit our website for alumni advantages including:

• Nationwide Insurance® Alumni Discount• Amazonsmile• First Bankcard• Valdosta State License Plate• VSU Voyagers Travel Program — explore the world together with your fellow Blazers!

www.valdostastate.org/benefits/welcome.php

Follow VSU Alumni on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Facebookwww.facebook.com/vstatealumni

Twitter@vstatealumni

Instagramvaldostastatealumni

20 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony — Front Lawn

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 21

BAILEYSCIENCECENTER

WEST HALLNEVINS HALL

POWELL

N. PATTERSON ST. N. PATTERSON ST.

Processional

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NEVINS LOT

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GUEST &ACCESSIBILITY

DROP OFF

ACCESSIBILITY

SEATING

H20 STATIONH20 STATION FIRST AIDFIRST AID

FACULTY

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A/S & ARTSLINE UP

ED / BUS / NURSINGLINE UP

FACULTYLINE UP

STAGE

RESTROOMSREST

ROOMS

▲NASHLEY HALL ROTUNDA

22 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

Graduate Commencement Ceremony — PE Complex

Severe Weather backup Site for Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony

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GRADUATES LINEUP HERE!

Event Location

Event Location & Parking

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 23

VSU Campus Map

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Episcopal College

Fellowship

1 Plant Operations Central Warehouse 2 Athletic House •Cheerleaders •Golf Coach •Softball Coach 3 Steel’s Diamond at Blazer Park Softball Fld Billy Grant Baseball Field Baseball Fieldhouse/Offices 4 Barrow Hall, AFROTC 5 Langdale College of Business •Pound Hall •Thaxton Hall •Health Sciences & Bus Admin Bldg 6 SGMC Parking Deck 7 Vacant 8 My Friend’s House/ (Alzheimer’s Daycare Program) 9 IDEA Center 10 Student Health Center/Infirmary •Counseling Center Center for International Programs 11 English Language Institute 12 University Honors College 13 Music Annex 14 Powell Hall •University Adv. (temp Spring ‘17) 15 Hugh C. Bailey Science Center 16 Georgia Residence Hall Langdale Residence Hall •Student Success Center Reade Residence Hall 17 Retirement Walkway 18 Farbar Hall •Continuing Education (temp Spring ‘17) 19 Carswell Hall 20 Palms Dining Center 21 Ashley Hall 22 West Hall 23 Nevins Hall 24 Faculty & Staff Parking 25 Admissions Office Adult & Military Prg 26 Converse Hall Graduate School Converse Residence Hall 27 Hopper Residence Hall 28 Brown Residence Hall Patterson Residence Hall Lowndes Residence Hall 29 Odum Library 30 Student Union 31 Enviro & Occ Safety 32 Baytree Apts 33 Pine Hall 34 Dewar College of Education & Human Serv •Education Center •Jennett Lecture Hall

35 Tennis Cour ts & Reames Field 36 PE Complex/Athletics 37 Fine Ar ts Bldg—COA (Whitehead & Sawyer Theatre) 38 Football Field 39 University Center 40 Communication Ar ts / Curriculum, Leadership & Technology Bldg. Mass Media Bldg. 41 Radio House 42 Information Technology University Police 43 Mar tin Hall—STEAM Center 44 Office of Social Equity 45 Vacant 46 Printshop 47 Auxiliary Services Campus Mail Services 48 Kinetic Credit Union 49 RCCE Marriage & Family Therapy 50 Student Recreation Center Sustella Parking Deck 51 Centennial Residence Halls 52 Student Rec Spor ts Complex 53 Athletic Field House Football Offices & Practice Fields Soccer Offices & Stadium Jessie Tuggle Weight Room

VSU CAMPUS MAP INDEX 5 Thaxton Hall 106 SBDC 214 Economics & Finance 314 Student Advising Center 5 Pound Hall 121 Political Science 206 Management 5 HSBA Bldg 1st fl Martin & Laura Lynn Miller Family Clinic (Speech & Hearing) Classrooms & Labs 2nd fl Social Work, Comm Sci & Dis 3rd fl Dean LCOBA & Faculty Offices 3017C Accounting 3002N Mkt & International Business 3002L Mgt & Healthcare Admin 4th fl College of Nursing & Health Sciences, Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology 14 Powell Hall E Testing W Office of Communications IT Services (Temp) 15 Hugh C. Bailey Science Center Biology | Chemistry 1036 Dean CAS 16 Langdale Hall Langdale POD Market Student Success Center 18 Farbar Hall Access Office Orientation University Ambassadors Continuing Ed. (Temp Spring 2017) 21 Ashley Hall 1001 History 1001 Women’s & Gender Studies 1202 Philosophy & Religious Studies 22 West Hall Academic Affairs President 101 Legal Affairs 124 Academic Projects 128 Modern & Classical Lang. 207 English 229 Public Administration 23 Nevins Hall 1004 SACJ 1107 African-American Studies 2006 PAG 2070 Computer Science 2072 Mathematics 26 Converse Hall Psychology & Counseling Dept. Graduate School 27 Hopper Hall Blazer Sports Grille Campus Mail Window & Boxes Housing & Residence Life SGA | Spectator | WVVS 29 Odum Library 4600 Library & Information Studies 4370 Archives & Special Collections IT HelpDesk New Media Center 30 Student Union •Level 1 Bookstore | Tech Shop •Level 2 Bookstore | Food Court •Level 3 Dean of Students|Student Life 33 Pine Hall Under Renovation 34 Education Center Einstein Bros Bagels

DEPARTMENT LOCATIONS

Indicates the location of freestanding emergency phones. Emergency phones

are also located at the main entrance to all the residence halls and on every level of both parking decks.

Emergency Phone Locations

78 ETTC 87 Middle, Secondary, Reading & Deaf Education 166 Early Childhood & Spe Ed 212 ACE 227 Dean COE 36 PE Complex Athletics 165 K & PE 37 Fine Arts Bldg 1070 Art 2004 Dean COA 2016 Music 2086 Theatre 39 University Center •Entrance 1 Meeting Rooms -Dogwood|Live Oak|Rose|Willow UC Theater 3103 Employee & Org Development •Entrance 2 Meeting Rooms -Cypress|Executive Dining|Magnolia Event Services Food Court Information Desk •Entrance 3 Jewelry & Metals Dance Studio Printmaking | Sculpture •Entrance 5 Career Opportunities Financial Services | HR/EOD Procurement | Registrar VP Finance & Admin •Entrance 6, 7 Bursary / 1card Services Centralized Advising Financial Aid First Year Programs ·Learning Communities ·Summer Bridge Academy ·Ignite Veteran’s Affairs •Entrance 8, 9 2037 So Ga College Entry Program •Entrance 10 Interior Design | Graphic Design 40 Comm Arts /Curriculum, Leadership & Technology Bldg. Mass Media Bldg 42 Oak Street Deck — Level 2 Information Technology ·Office of the CIO ·Enterprise Applications & Analytics ·Systems Operations ·Infrastructure Services (& Network) Institutional Research University Police 49 RCCE —Continuing Education Building A •1st Floor Continuing Education •2nd Floor Learning in Retirement CS Photography Studio •3rd Floor University Advancement Advancement Services Alumni Relations Development VSU Foundation, Inc. Building B Creative Services (CS) ·Digital Media (Mkt, Web & Video) Marriage & Family Therapy FamilyWorks Building C Creative Services (CS) ·Design & Photography C.E. Annex A106, A107, A108 50 Sustella Deck — Level 1 Campus Recreation Rental Center Parking & Transportation

TM

Revised March 2017 — Creative Services — VSU Campus Map — Page 1 of 1

24 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 25

Alma Mater

‘Mong the stately pines of Georgia

Glorious to the view

Stands our noble Alma Mater

Basking ‘neath the blue.

Alma Mater, thee we honor

Praises never fail,

For thy fame shall never perish,

Red and Black — all hail!

Alma Mater’s sons and daughters

Ever will be true.

Always to thy heart returning

Dear old V. S.U.

Alma Mater, thee we honor

Praises never fail,

For thy fame shall never perish,

Red and Black — all hail!

Words by Helen Allen Thomas (’21) and Evelyn Brown (’24) Music by Dr. John Huxford, Professor Emeritus of Music Arranged for brass quintet by Kenyon Wilson

26 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

CongratulationsC L ASS O F 2 0 1 8 !

YOUR WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? GUIDE | 27

CongratulationsC L ASS O F 2 0 1 8 !

28 | Valdosta State University Spring 2018 Commencement Handbook

IMPORTANT CONTACTS Event Services Office229.333.5998www.valdosta.edu/commencement

Facebook Valdosta State University Commencement

Twitter VSUcommencement Instagram Valdostastate

Access Office229.245.2498www.valdosta.edu/student/disability/welcome.php

On-Campus Housing [email protected] Campus PolicePublic Safety Emergency Line: 229.259.5555Main Line TTY: 229.333.7816Anonymous Tip Line: 229.219.3171

Regalia, Rings, & AnnouncementsJostenswww.jostens.com/apps/store/customer/1040977/Valdosta-State-University/800.854.7464

Valdosta State UniversityEvent Services1500 N. Patterson St.Valdosta, GA 31698

Live Webcastwww.valdosta.edu/commencement

Professional PhotographyGrad Images 800.261.2576www.gradimages.com/

DVDs of CommencementAlumni Relations229.333.5797www.valdostastate.org/

Registrar’s Office229.333.5727www.valdosta.edu/academics/registrar/

VSU Bookstore229.333.5666www.valdosta.edu/bookstore

Accommodationswww.valdosta.edu/commencement

Non-Profit Org.U.S.Postage

PAIDPermit No. 24Valdosta, GA